Kazakhstan Declares 2026 as Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence

Astana, The Gulf Observer: Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has announced that 2026 will be declared the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence, describing it as a new stage of modernization for Kazakhstan, according to media reports.

In his traditional New Year address to the people of Kazakhstan, President Tokayev said the coming year would mark an important phase in the country’s development, with a strong focus on advanced technologies to enhance national potential across all sectors.

The President emphasized that an upcoming constitutional reform would play a key role in ensuring the country’s prosperous future. He expressed confidence that citizens would support the reform, noting that it would accelerate Kazakhstan’s progress along the path of sustainable development. He outlined priority areas including strengthening energy potential, developing the agro-industrial complex, improving water management, advancing transport and logistics, and modernizing housing and utilities infrastructure. Support for small and medium-sized businesses, he added, would remain a central focus of state policy.

President Tokayev said new enterprises would be launched in all regions, alongside continued investment in infrastructure, including road repairs and the construction of residential buildings, schools, healthcare, sports and cultural facilities.

Announcing the decision to designate 2026 as the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence, the Head of State said the introduction of advanced technologies would significantly strengthen the country’s capabilities and competitiveness in all spheres.

He also underscored the importance of caring for the younger generation in practical terms. President Tokayev noted that, under his National Fund for Children initiative, financial resources would soon be credited to the accounts of every child for the third time.

Reaffirming the state’s social commitments, the President said the government would continue to prioritize education and healthcare, stressing that sustained investment in these sectors remains essential for Kazakhstan’s long-term development.